Blog: How Often Should You Really Wash Your Bath Towels?

Have you ever thought about how clean your bath towels really are? In the rush of daily life, it's easy to overlook their care. But believe it or not, the condition of your towels affects more than just cleanliness—it impacts your comfort too.

Imagine finishing a nice, long shower and reaching for your towel, expecting it to be soft and cosy. Instead, you're hit with a not-so-nice smell and rough fabric. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Many of us don't realise how important it is to wash and take care of our towels regularly, leaving them full of germs and dirt.

This blog will help you understand everything about keeping your towels clean. From how often to wash them to the best way to do it, we've got you covered.

Why you should wash your towels often

Regularly washing your towels is essential for maintaining hygiene, freshness, and skin health. Every time you use a towel, it collects dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria, creating a breeding ground for unpleasant odours and potential skin irritations.

Washing them removes these contaminants, ensuring that your towels remain clean and safe to use.

Additionally, frequent washing helps prevent the growth of bacteria and mould, keeping your towels smelling fresh.

By taking care of your towels through regular washing, you not only ensure their longevity but also contribute to your overall well-being by maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your skin.

How often should you really wash your bath towels?

How often you should wash your bath towels depends on factors like how often you use them, your personal hygiene habits, and the environment they're kept in. As a general rule, it's recommended to wash bath towels every three to four uses.

However, if you use your towels more frequently, such as in a busy household or during hot weather, they may need washing more often. It's also important to wash your towels immediately if they're visibly soiled, have an unpleasant odour, or have been in contact with sick individuals, to prevent the spread of germs.

Ultimately, paying attention to the condition of your towels and washing them as needed will help keep them clean and fresh for optimal use.

The best way to wash bath towels

Ensuring your bath towels stay clean and fresh involves more than just tossing them in the washing machine. To maintain their softness, absorbency, and longevity, it's crucial to follow the best washing practices. From sorting your towels to selecting the right detergent and cycle, every step plays a role in keeping your towels in top condition.

1. Sort your towels

Sorting your towels before washing is a crucial step in ensuring they maintain their colour and quality. Separating your towels by colour helps prevent colour bleeding during the wash. Wash white towels separately from coloured towels to maintain their brightness and prevent dullness or discoloration. By taking the time to sort your towels before washing, you can preserve their appearance and extend their lifespan, ensuring they remain vibrant and fresh after each wash.

2. Pre-treat stains

Pre-treating stains on your towels before washing can help ensure they come out clean and fresh. Before tossing your towels in the washing machine, take a moment to address any stains they may have accumulated. You can use a stain remover or create a simple mixture of water and detergent to pre-treat the affected areas. Gently rub the stain with the solution and allow it to sit for a few minutes before proceeding with the wash. This extra step can help lift stubborn stains and prevent them from setting in during the wash cycle, leaving your towels looking and smelling their best.

3. Load the washing machine

Loading the washing machine properly is essential to ensure that your towels are thoroughly cleaned and don't get damaged during the wash cycle. Begin by placing

your sorted towels into the washing machine, making sure not to overload it. Overloading can prevent the towels from moving freely and getting clean. At the same time, avoid underloading, as this can lead to imbalance and inefficient washing. By loading your towels correctly, you allow the water and detergent to circulate evenly, resulting in cleaner and fresher towels after each wash.

4. Add a detergent

Once your towels are loaded into the washing machine, it's time to add detergent. Choose a mild detergent suitable for washing towels and follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging for the correct amount to use based on the size of your load. Adding too much detergent can leave residue on your towels, while too little may not effectively clean them. By using the right amount of detergent, you ensure that your towels come out of the wash cycle fresh, clean, and free from any lingering odours or grime.

5. Select water temperature

Selecting the appropriate water temperature is crucial for effectively cleaning your towels without damaging their fibres. Opt for a warm water temperature setting on your washing machine. Warm water helps to dissolve detergent more effectively and remove dirt, oils, and bacteria from the towels. It also helps to prevent shrinkage and preserve the integrity of the fabric compared to hot water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause towels to shrink and fade over time

6. Choose a gentle cycle

When washing your bath towels, it's important to select a gentle cycle on your washing machine. The gentle cycle ensures that your towels are washed with care, minimising agitation and reducing the risk of damage to the fabric. This is especially important for maintaining the softness and absorbency of your towels over time. By opting for a gentle cycle, you can effectively clean your towels while prolonging their lifespan, ensuring that they remain plush and luxurious with each use.

7. Skip the fabric softener

It's best to skip the fabric softener when washing your towels. While fabric softener can leave towels feeling soft and smelling fresh, it can also leave a residue on the fibres, which reduces their absorbency over time. Instead, consider using alternatives like vinegar or wool dryer balls during the drying process to naturally soften and fluff your towels. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of soft and absorbent towels without compromising their performance in the long run.

8. Tumble dry on low heat or line dry

After washing, it's important to choose the right drying method to preserve the quality of your towels. You can either tumble dry them on a low heat setting in the dryer or opt for line drying. Tumble drying on low heat helps to fluff up the towels while reducing the risk of shrinkage and damage to the fibres.

However, if you prefer a more eco-friendly approach or want to avoid potential heat damage, line drying is a great option. Hang your towels in direct sunlight or a well-ventilated area to allow them to air dry naturally.

This method helps to preserve the softness and absorbency of your towels while also saving energy. Whether you choose to tumble dry or line dry, your towels will come out fresh, fluffy, and ready to use.

Check out Briscoes’ range of bath towels

Keeping your towels clean is crucial for hygiene and comfort. Following the steps we've discussed, like sorting and pre-treating stains, helps maintain their quality.

Remember to skip fabric softener and try alternatives like vinegar or wool dryer balls. Whether you choose to tumble dry or hang them up, your towels will come out fresh.

Explore our range of towels at Briscoes to find your perfect match.